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The Axeman's Carnival

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The Axeman's Carnival

By: Catherine Chidgey
Narrated by: Nic Sampson
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About this listen

A dazzling portrayal of humanity and the natural world that perfectly balances violence and humor

Tama is just a helpless chick when he is rescued by Marnie, and this is where his story might have ended. “If it keeps me awake,” says Marnie's husband Rob, a farmer, “I'll have to wring its neck.” But with Tama come new possibilities for the couple's future. Tama can speak, and his fame is growing. Outside, in the pines, his father warns him of the wickedness wrought by humans. Indoors, Marnie confides in him about her violent marriage. The more Tama sees, the more the animal and the human worlds—and all the precarity, darkness and hope within them—bleed into one another. Like a stock truck filled with live cargo, the story moves inexorably towards its dramatic conclusion: the annual Axeman's Carnival.

©2024 Catherine Chidgey (P)2024 W.F. Howes Ltd Animals Family Life Genre Fiction Magical Realism World Literature Marriage Witty

Critic reviews

WINNER OF THE JANN MEDLICOTT ACORN PRIZE FOR FICTION AT THE 2023 OCKHAM NEW ZEALAND BOOK AWARDS
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Really enjoyable book. Great narrator who pitches the voices perfectly. Definitely recommended for comedy and drama

Amazing book with a fantastic narrator

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Loved this- narration was exceptional. The kiwi vernacular was so enjoyable- I laughed often. Smart storytelling with the endearing Tama made this often bleak story compelling listening.

The originality

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Such a beautifully written book. I got so attached to Tama and his quirky observations. It made me laugh and cry. I didn't want the book to end! Excellently read too.

couldn't stop listening

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